It’s only natural that interior designers have a knack for selecting the perfect gift. After all, gift-giving is an art, and designers know exactly what makes people happy at home. We turned to local designers for their favorite gift ideas—and how they like to wrap their goodies. Whether you’re shopping for the impossible-tobuy- for or seeking inspiration for the finishing touches, you’ll find ideas here.
“NOTHING EMBODIES THE SPIRIT OF THE SOUTH LIKE A FRESH MAGNOLIA WREATH. WE LOVE THE SELECTION OF LUXURIOUS LOCAL GREENS FROM WESTON FARMS IN GARNER, NORTH CAROLINA. OUR FAVORITE IS EMERALD LACE.” —ROBERT MacNEILL, ROUX MacNEILL STUDIO
Emerald Lace 36-inch Wreath / $340 / westonfarms.com
“I LOVE TO GIVE MICHAEL ARAM CANDLES TO FRIENDS AND CLIENTS AS I CAN CUSTOMIZE EACH ONE TO THEIR PERSONALITIES—SCENTS, TASTE, AND STYLE. I LOVE TO RECEIVE CANDLES. I HAVE A CANDLE BURNING IN MY OFFICE ALL DAY AND IN MY HOME EVERY EVENING; CANDLES EVOKE A RELAXING ATMOSPHERE.” —TULA SUMMERFORD, DESIGN BY TULA
Michael Aram Olive Branch Gold Candle / $70 / michaelaram.com
“WHEN I GIVE A GIFT, I SPEND TIME THINKING ABOUT WHAT I KNOW ABOUT THAT PERSON AND I TRY TO GIVE THEM SOMETHING VERY INTIMATE TO THEIR TASTE. IT’S IMPORTANT TO ME TO TREAT THEM TO SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL THAT THEY WOULDN’T DO FOR THEMSELVES.” —MARTHA SCHNEIDER, LA MAISON INTERIORS
Capri Dolce Vita / $85 / assouline.com
“I LOVE TO GIVE PRACTICAL AND UNIQUE GIFTS. I LOVE TO RECEIVE THINGS I WOULD NEVER BUY FOR MYSELF BUT ARE STILL USEFUL AND FUNCTION IN 
MY HOME.” —KATHERINE CONNELL, KATHERINE CONNELL INTERIOR DESIGN
Small Belles Rives Tray / starting at $175 / thelacquercompany.com
“I LIKE TO GIVE GIFTS THAT THE RECIPIENT WOULD LOVE TO USE FOR THEMSELVES BUT CAN ALSO SHARE. FOR EXAMPLE, ITEMS THEY CAN BRING OUT WHEN ENTERTAINING FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I HAVE FOUND THE GIFTS I USE THE MOST ARE ONES I CAN ENJOY WITH OTHERS.” —JEFF SNYDER, SIMON’S HOUSE INTERIORS
Philippos Hellenic Goods Organic Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil / $30 / zelosgreekartisan.com